RIDEAU VALLEY, June 16, 2026 – Twenty-one students are spending their summer protecting and enhancing the Rideau River watershed through hands-on conservation work with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), with support from the federal Canada Summer Jobs program.
From water quality monitoring and habitat restoration to forestry work, data collection and park operations, students are helping to care for rivers, wetlands, forests and conservation areas across the watershed, supported by $54,000 in federal funding.
“This funding helps us invest in the next generation of environmental professionals while advancing important conservation work across the watershed,” said RVCA General Manager Sommer Casgrain-Robertson. “Our students bring energy, curiosity and dedication to every project they take on.”
The Canada Summer Jobs program helps young people across Canada gain meaningful work experience, build skills and explore career pathways. Through RVCA's participation, students are developing practical knowledge while helping to conserve and enhance the natural environment for current and future generations.
“These opportunities provide meaningful, real-world experience that students can carry forward into their careers,” said Casgrain-Robertson. “At the same time, they are making a tangible contribution to the health and resilience of the Rideau watershed.”
Carleton MP Bruce Fanjoy met with RVCA students benefiting from his government’s program at a community event at the RVCA head office on Saturday, June 13.
He said the summer jobs program supports good first work experiences, but the RVCA’s program has the added benefit of supporting a more sustainable future, as well.
“And the younger you are, the more important that’s going to be,” Fanjoy told an audience gathered for the RVCA’s 60th anniversary. “It’s our responsibility to pass this land to younger generations in great condition.”
-30-
